Amidst our busy work and day to day lives, drowning in emails, deadlines and life, it’s a time to come together as a group.  A time for our leaders to address the assembled team and reflect on all we’ve achieved as a company, as an individual, as a department and to celebrate one’s successes and have these achievements acknowledged and of course to generally to have a good time.

Much like the Christmas season, the annual, much awaited office Christmas shindig is all about generating engagement and a sense of team.  And no more truer than for those who are not often afforded the opportunity to mingle with one’s co-worker a mere 20 metres down the hall or across State lines.

For many, the typical office party, fuelled by a mix of alcohol, good food, laughter, somewhat relaxed inhibitions and the shedding of work stress, goes a long way in culminating new and lasting friendships.  Not to forget creating an environment to fan the flames of long repressed innovative ideas for better work efficiencies and processes, that more than often never see the light of day, but allows one the rare opportunity to glimpse into the amazing mind and thought process of a fellow colleague, where you’re reminded again with delight, how incredible it is to work with such a myriad of unique individuals that make up our work ‘family’.

The value to be found in this age-old tradition of letting one’s hair down, engaging in idle or sometimes inappropriate conversation with some heavy bouts of laughter or intense conversation with a fellow employee, enjoying the festive season, no matter how big or small the function, never let it be said that these rare but small reprieves from the everyday office life, certainly has long-term value in establishing or building culture.

The opportunity to interact with colleagues and superiors as mere people and not just co-workers in an environment separated from work, is essential for building a workforce and long-term productivity, blending both personal and professional relationships, long after the tinsel has been taken down.

Image Credits:
Photo by Welcome Home on Unsplash
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash